Zolile Wiseman Dlamini | Composite Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zolile Wiseman Dlamini | Composite Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at Central University of Technology, South Africa

Profile:

Current Position🏫

Dr. Dlamini currently serves as a Lecturer in the Maths, Science, and Technology Education Department at the Central University of Technology in Bloemfontein, South Africa, where he has been working since 2020. His expertise in physics and science methodology equips his students with the necessary tools and knowledge for understanding complex scientific principles. This work aligns with his career objective to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application, particularly in science education.

Educational Journey and Academic Excellence 🎓

Dr. Dlamini’s academic trajectory demonstrates his dedication to furthering his knowledge and expertise in Physics. He holds a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of South Africa (UNISA), completed between 2019 and 2022. His doctoral thesis, titled “Electrical Conduction and Resistive Switching in Polymer and Biodegradable Nanocomposites,” highlights his pioneering work in material science, specifically in the field of nanocomposites, which are crucial for the development of future electronics.

Before his Ph.D., Dr. Dlamini completed his M.Sc. in Physics (CUM LAUDE) at UNISA, where his thesis focused on Resonant and Non-Resonant Microwave Absorption Studies in Ba0.6K0.4Fe2As2 Single Crystals. This work contributed to the field of condensed matter physics, exploring new properties of materials under electromagnetic radiation. Dr. Dlamini also holds a B.Sc. Hons in Physics and a B.Ed. in Natural Science from Walter Sisulu University, demonstrating a strong foundation in both physics and education. His early education in natural sciences provided him with a broad understanding of scientific principles, which he later specialized in during his postgraduate studies.

Research Interests and Ongoing Projects 🔬

Dr. Dlamini’s primary research interests lie in experimental physics, with a special focus on nanocomposites and electrical conduction. His research aims to explore new materials with unique properties, particularly those that could lead to more sustainable and efficient technologies in electronics and energy storage.

  • Nanocomposites and Electrical Conductivity: His work on polymer and biodegradable nanocomposites seeks to understand the mechanisms that govern their electrical conduction and resistive switching. This research has significant implications for the development of next-generation electronic devices and sustainable materials.
  • Microwave Absorption Studies: Dr. Dlamini has conducted significant research on microwave absorption in materials, which is vital for applications such as electromagnetic shielding and communication technologies.

Publication Achievements 📚

Dr. Dlamini has made valuable contributions to the scientific community through his publications, including his MSc and Ph.D. research. He has published numerous articles and papers in peer-reviewed journals in the fields of experimental physics and materials science. These publications reflect the depth of his expertise in areas such as electrical conduction, material properties, and microwave absorption.

His research has not only advanced the understanding of nanocomposites but also opened new possibilities for their application in electronic devices, helping to bridge the gap between fundamental science and practical technology.

Community Engagement and Professional Contributions 🌍

Dr. Dlamini is also committed to community service, demonstrating his passion for mentoring and inspiring the next generation of scientists. He has served as a judge for the Eskom Expo for Young Scientist Competition in the OR Tambo region of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, from 2017 to 2019 and again in 2023. This role allows him to support young scientists in their endeavors and foster a culture of innovation and critical thinking in the local community.

In addition, he facilitated the SAIP-CUT Teacher Development Workshop in 2022, which was aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of science educators in South Africa.

Awards, and Recognition 🏆

Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Dlamini has been recognized for his excellence in research and education. His Cum Laude MSc qualification is a testament to his outstanding academic performance. Additionally, his ongoing work in the field of experimental physics continues to be highly regarded in the scientific community.

Training and Professional Development 📖

As part of his commitment to both personal and professional growth, Dr. Dlamini regularly participates in training and workshops related to physics education and research methodologies. His involvement in these activities enables him to stay at the forefront of emerging scientific trends and teaching practices.

Success Factors and Future Directions 🚀

Dr. Dlamini’s success can be attributed to his unwavering dedication to education, research, and community service. His interdisciplinary approach to experimental physics, coupled with his teaching excellence, positions him as a key figure in advancing scientific education and research in South Africa. Going forward, he plans to continue his exploration of innovative nanocomposite materials and their applications in various technologies, contributing to global advancements in sustainable electronics and energy systems.

📖Publications:

Paper Title: Non-Volatile Resistive Random-Access Memory and a Manufacturing Method Thereof

  • Authors: S. Vallabhapurapu, V.S. Vallabhapurapu, Z.W. Dlamini
  • Journal: US Patent Application 18/685,147
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Chemical and Resistive Switching Properties of Elaeodendron buchananii Extract–Carboxymethyl Cellulose Composite: A Potential Active Layer for Biodegradable

  • Authors: Z.W. Dlamini, S. Vallabhapurapu, J. Nambooze, A. Wilhelm, E. Erasmus,
  • Journal: Polymers
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Sustainable Nonvolatile Resistive Switching Memory Using Chitosan/MEH-PPV Polymer Blend

  • Authors: Z.W. Dlamini, S. Vallabhapurapu, V.S. Vallabhapurapu
  • Journal: Green Materials
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Resistive Switching Property of Euforbia Cotinifolia Plant Extract for Potential Use in Eco-Friendly Memory Devices

  • Authors: Z.W. Dlamini, S. Vallabhapurapu, S.V. Vallabhapurapu
  • Journal: Journal of Circuits, Systems and Computers
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Extraction, Chemical, and Dual-Functional Memory and Threshold Resistive Switching Characteristics of Elaeodendron buchananii Extract

  • Authors: Z.W. Dlamini, S. Vallabhapurapu, J. Nambooze, A. Wilhelm, E. Erasmus,
  • Journal: Materials Today Communications
  • Year: 2024

 

Mi-Kyung Lee | FRP in Health & Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Mi-Kyung Lee | FRP in Health & Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Sunchon Nattional University, South Korea

Profiles:

📍 Current Position

Dr. Mi-Kyung Lee is a distinguished professor at the Department of Food and Nutrition at Sunchon National University in South Korea. Since joining the department in 2006, Dr. Lee has been an influential educator and researcher, focusing on nutrition science and its impact on health. Her leadership extends beyond teaching, as she currently serves as an editor for the Nutrition Research and Practice journal, where she contributes significantly to the dissemination of groundbreaking research in the field of nutrition.

🔬 Ongoing Research

Dr. Mi-Kyung Lee ongoing research is centered around the effects of functional foods and nutrients on lipid and glucose metabolism, particularly in the contexts of diabetes, obesity, and hepatic diseases. Her work aims to unravel the complex biochemical pathways involved in these metabolic conditions and to identify dietary components that can serve as potential therapeutic agents. By investigating the role of fermented foods and bioactive compounds, Dr. Lee is pioneering efforts to develop functional foods that can improve metabolic health.

🧬 Research Interests

She research interests are diverse, encompassing various facets of nutrition and metabolism. Her primary focus is on the metabolic effects of functional foods and bioactive compounds, with a special interest in understanding how these components influence lipid and glucose metabolism in metabolic disorders. Additionally, Dr. Lee is keenly interested in the nutritional properties of fermented foods and their potential as alternative protein sources, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable and health-promoting dietary options.

🎓 Academic Background

Her academic journey is marked by a strong foundation in food and nutrition sciences. She earned her Ph.D. in Food and Nutrition from Yeungnam University in 1998, where she also completed her M.S. and B.S. degrees. Her early academic pursuits were characterized by a deep interest in the biochemical underpinnings of nutrition and its impact on health, laying the groundwork for her future research career.

🏆 Scholarships and Awards

Throughout her career, Dr. Lee has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field of nutrition. Her innovative research has earned her several awards and accolades, reflecting her dedication to advancing our understanding of how diet affects health. Although specific scholarships and awards were not listed, her consistent publication record and editorial roles speak to her recognition within the academic community.

💻 Bioinformatics

Dr. Lee employs bioinformatics tools and techniques in her research to analyze the complex data generated from her studies on metabolic pathways and the effects of functional foods. By integrating bioinformatics into her work, she can efficiently process and interpret large datasets, enhancing the depth and impact of her research findings.

🌐 Professional Associations

As an active member of the nutrition science community, Dr. Lee is involved in several professional associations. Her affiliations with these organizations enable her to stay updated on the latest developments in her field and to collaborate with other experts on multidisciplinary research projects. These associations also provide a platform for her to contribute to the advancement of nutritional science on a global scale.

🎓 Training & Workshops

Dr. Lee has participated in numerous training programs and workshops to further hone her research skills and stay abreast of the latest advancements in food and nutrition sciences. These professional development opportunities have equipped her with cutting-edge methodologies and techniques that she applies in her research, ensuring that her work remains at the forefront of the field.

🗣️ Oral Presentations

Dr. Lee is a seasoned presenter, having delivered numerous oral presentations at national and international conferences. Her presentations are well-regarded for their clarity and depth, showcasing her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively. These presentations provide an opportunity for her to share her research findings with the wider scientific community and to receive valuable feedback that can inform future studies.

📝 Tasks Completed as a Researcher

Dr. Lee’s accomplishments as a researcher are manifold. She has successfully led various research projects, often collaborating with other experts to explore the effects of functional foods on metabolic health. Her tasks have included designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, writing research papers, and mentoring junior researchers. Her ability to manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining a high standard of research excellence is a testament to her skill and dedication.

🌱 Success Factors

The success of Dr. Lee’s research can be attributed to her meticulous approach to scientific inquiry and her commitment to advancing knowledge in the field of nutrition. Her ability to integrate traditional nutrition science with emerging areas such as functional foods and bioinformatics has enabled her to contribute significantly to the understanding of metabolic diseases. Moreover, her collaborative spirit and willingness to engage with other researchers have facilitated the cross-pollination of ideas, leading to innovative research outcomes.

📊 Publications & Laboratory Experience

Dr. Lee’s extensive experience in both publishing and laboratory research highlights her dual expertise in theoretical and practical aspects of nutrition science. Her ability to translate complex laboratory findings into publishable research is a key strength, ensuring that her work reaches a wide audience and contributes to the scientific community’s collective knowledge.

📖Publications:

Paper Title: Anti-muscle atrophy effect of fermented Tenebrio molitor larvae extract by modulating the PI3K-Akt-mTOR/FoxO3α pathway in mice treated with dexamethasone

  • Authors: Han, J., Choi, S.-Y., Choi, R.-Y., Kang, K.-Y., Lee, M.-K.
  • Journal: Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Physicochemical and Sensory Properties and Antioxidant Activity of Xylitol Candies Containing Yuja (Citrus junos) Peels or Pulp

  • Authors: Im, J.-H., Lee, M.-K., Lee, H.-I.
  • Journal: Foods
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Effects of Extraction Methods on Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Activity of Mealworm Oil

  • Authors: Im, J.-H., Lee, M.-K., Lee, H.-I.
  • Journal: Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Nutrient composition and taste properties of Sargassum fusiforme from the Wando region

  • Authors: Lee, H.-I., Kim, C.-B., Lee, M.-K.
  • Journal: Food Science and Preservation
  • Year: 2024

Paper Title: Comparison of the Preadipocyte Differentiation Inhibitory Effects and Antioxidant Activities of Immature and Mature Yuzu Peel Hot Water Extracts In Vitro

  • Authors: Lee, M.-K., Yoon, J.-Y., Lee, H.-I
  • Journal: Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition
  • Year: 2023